Archived prayer concerns:

July 3
· All throughout the summer, volunteers will be traveling to China to share Christ through English teaching, literature distribution, sports and arts ministries, business seminars, and campus activities. Pray that all who have committed to serving Him in China this summer will continuously look to Him for strength and guidance. Praise God for fruit that will be forthcoming.

· In order to assure that they would be able to share the gospel with others in their villages, believers in a particular ethnic-minority group were trained to use their native dialect to retell the Bible stories that they had heard in Mandarin Chinese. Praise God that the training helped the men to realize that they are now able to tell their own wives about Christ in a language that can be understood. This has long been a challenge since the men who have left the villages to work have learned Chinese, whereas their wives who stayed in the villages did not.

· Ask God to look with mercy on the 120,000 who lost their homes in a 6.4 magnitude earthquake in southwest China in early June. Praise God that only three persons died in the quake. Pray that shelter can be provided for all who were forced out of their homes by the quake that caused such destruction in Pu'er, Yunnan Province. Pray that as the people of Pu'er reflect on the uncertainty of life and how swiftly conditions can change, that they will be open to God's plan for their lives. Pray that as they seek life's meaning, they will find salvation in Christ.

· Hundreds of kidnapped farmers, teenagers, and even children have been rescued from brick factories in recent weeks as stories of horror have unfolded in at least two China provinces. After being held against their will for many months and forced into hard labor under harsh conditions, the workers are being reunited with their families. Even as you pray for those who are enslaved to earthly masters, pray too for all who are enslaved to sin. Pray that they may be set free spiritually through faith in Jesus Christ.

· 134,000 Chinese students studied abroad last year and 42,000 students returned to China after completing overseas studies. Pray that Christians worldwide will seize opportunities to share Christ with Chinese students. Pray that those who return to China after receiving Christ will be fervent in their commitment and witness. Thank God that He is raising up a generation of Christian influencers.

· Pray for the salvation of the 20 million deaf mute people of China. Thank Him for those who are seeking to reach them with the gospel and ask Him to strengthen and enable them in the exciting and challenging task.

· Sixteen of the world's 20 most polluted cities are in China. Yet Christian workers are willingly living and serving in some of these cities in order to tell lost Chinese people about the cleansing fountains of God's grace. Thank Him for their commitment and pray that He will cover them with protection and keep them healthy.

June 18
· All throughout the summer, volunteers will be traveling to China to share Christ through English teaching, literature distribution, sports and arts ministries, business seminars, and campus activities. Pray that all who have committed to serving Him in China this summer will continuously look to Him for strength and guidance. Praise God for fruit that will be forthcoming.

· Natural disasters are a recurring fact of life in China. Almost 23 million Chinese people were affected by natural disasters in April alone. Droughts, hailstorms and snow storms hit vast areas of farmland, killing at least 73 people and destroying 34,000 homes. Praise God for the resiliency of the Chinese people. Pray that those who have survived multiple natural disasters will look to Christ for salvation so that they can continue to live for all eternity.

· China's government-sanctioned registered church claims that there are now 16 million Christians in China. But observers of China's non-sanctioned house church estimate China's believers to be as high as 120 million! Praise God for the unprecedented growth of the church in China. Pray that it will continue to grow at a rate that will confound believers and non-believers.

· While a group of volunteers prayerwalked on behalf of an unreached minority group recently, long-term workers targeting the group made 30 new contacts. A long-term worker rejoiced in the power of prayer, explaining to the visitors that walls of resistance had miraculously crumbled that afternoon. Don't stop praying.

· Surveillance is a always a threat for those sharing Christ in China, and often it becomes a reality. Pray today for those who know that their steps are traced, their phones are tapped, and in some cases, their homes are bugged. Ask God to give them wisdom in what they say and do, grace and courage to withstand difficult situations, and a powerful witness in the midst of tremendous challenges.

May 28
· People sharing the Gospel throughout China are often surprised at how quickly someone decides to receive Christ once they have heard about His plan of salvation. Many millions are waiting to hear of Jesus sacrificial love. Pray that many more workers will join Chinese Christians and overseas workers who are faithfully sharing His love.

· Chinese people number 1.3 billion; so many that they account for one out of every people in the world. Yet the Father who created them sees not just the masses of people, but each individual Chinese person. As He calls Chinese men and women and children into relationship through Christ, He allows many who are already His children to assist in this awesome task. Praise Him for loving us enough to use us to love others into His family.

· It has been said that when missionaries went to China in centuries past, they went to die. Many literally died on the field, either through sickness or injury. Others served for many long years before they returned to the U.S. Times and realities have changed greatly, but missionaries to China still come to die: dying over and over to self so that they can lead others to new life in Christ. Thank God today for all who are dying to themselves so that they might bear much fruit. (Jn. 12:24)

· Beggars are a tragic reality of any major China city. Disabled people sit for long hours waiting for strangers to drop coins in their money jar. Impoverished mothers holding newborns weave in and out between the cars at stop lights, asking for money through open car windows. Little children with matted hair and filthy clothes appear from nowhere with palms outstretched and voices pleading for help. Pray that China can develop more appropriate ways to provide for its beggars. Pray that all who have been reduced to beggar status in China will one day know the riches of relationship with Christ.

May 9
· Christian workers serving in Lottie Moon's China rejoiced to hear that the 2006 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering goal of $150 million was surpassed. They take great joy in knowing that as the offerings support them, their families, and their work this next year, they can devote themselves fully to sharing Christ with the Chinese people that Lottie so loved and that God loves even more.

· Praise God for the continued rapid growth of His church in China where Christians are now estimated to be 120 million strong. Pray that believers new and old will continue to fervently share their faith with the one billion plus Chinese people who still do not know Christ.

· Please pray today for expectant parents who are serving in China. Thank God for the willingness of many young American couples to spend their childbearing years serving Christ in China. Pray for God's hand of protection to be on mothers and babies during pregnancy and delivery. Pray that families can find balance between home and ministry during this important phase of their lives. Pray the God will use these young families as a vibrant witness in the cities and villages where they live and serve.

· Illiteracy in China is on the rise. With more than 116 million residents who are unable to read, China is second only to India in the total of illiterates. China's population of non-readers represents more than 11 percent of illiterates worldwide. Challenged by this reality, many Christian workers are focusing on presenting the Gospel in ways that can be easily communicated without written text. Thank God for the diligence of those committed to this task. Pray that through "storying" that dates back to Bible times, many millions of illiterate Chinese people will hear of God's love and will receive salvation in Christ.

· As their parents migrate to cities in search of a better life, multitudes of rural Chinese children are left behind where they stand the risk of being sold or forced to become beggars, petty thieves, or sex workers. Pray that Chinese parents will make wise decisions on behalf of their children as they migrate to cities. Pray that rural Christians will know how best to protect the children in their communities. Pray for God's hand of protection to be upon countryside children, as well as those in China's cities.

April 24
· Praise God that Bibles are becoming more easily available in China. Bibles are now purportedly sold in some secular bookstores and the Olympic committee is contemplating placing Bibles in Beijing hotel rooms during the 2008 Summer Olympic games. Amity Press, the official press of the registered church, printed four million Bibles last year and has plans to sharply increase its publication of Bibles. Many other Bibles are rolling off of unofficial presses in locations throughout China. Pray that every Chinese man, woman, and child will someday have access to God's Holy Word.

· With six men to every five women of marriageable age in China, the ratio has already rendered many Chinese men hopeless in terms of marriage prospects. Ironically, many of these young men feel pressured to marry by the very society that created this imbalance through the one child policy. Pray that China's leadership will acknowledge the severe consequences of the policy and change it so that future generations won't suffer unnecessarily. Pray that the young men and women of this generation will find true hope and eternal love in relationship with Jesus Christ.

· Pray that all who serve God in China will find their moorings in Him alone and will not feel cut loose by the constant comings and goings of personnel, leadership, volunteer teams, and even their own children. Pray that they can find joy in the various seasons of their work and lives while keeping their focus on the Author and Finisher of their faith.

· Hundreds of volunteer teams will be fanning out through China to share the Good News this summer. Pray for all who are making preparations on both sides of the ocean: some to come and some to receive and facilitate those that come. Pray that every strategic volunteer request will be filled and that each volunteer will allow God to reign fully in his or her heart so that He can truly use them to build His Kingdom. Pray that many Chinese men, women, and children will hear of Jesus this summer through short-term workers.

· When students graduate from high school anywhere in the world, both they and their parents recognize that huge changes are on the horizon. The changes are even more pronounced for the children of overseas Christian workers who will soon be living a half a world away from their parents. Pray today for the graduates and their parents, asking God to give them sweet family times even as He prepares them for long periods of separation.

April 10
· Pray for all who are studying Putonghua or other Chinese dialects for the sake of the gospel. Learning a second language as an adult can be extremely challenging and humbling. Ask God to give grace and enabling to those who seek to communicate the gospel in tongues that can be understood by the peoples of China.

· A worker in China recently wrote, "We can get discouraged when we walk up the hillsides and see the graves strewn with fake paper money burnt for the dead. But (we are) reminded that the simple Word of truth is powerful enough to break down any stronghold. We take heart as we remember that the faithful spreading of the Word will reap a harvest beyond our imagination." Pray that all in China who worship idols and even their ancestors will come to know the One and Only True God.

· Thank God for a new Christian short-wave radio program designed to reach people all over China. Ask God to draw the listening ears of all who need to hear the gospel proclaimed. Pray that all involved in the broadcasts will depend on Him for wisdom, strength, and direction. Ask God to protect the program from unfriendly interference so that His Word can go forth into villages throughout the land.

· Eastern Lightning is a diabolic cult bent on destroying Christ's church. Pray today that God will protect His church in China from the continued trickery and deceit of this enemy group. Pray that Chinese believers and overseas Christian workers will depend on the Holy Spirit to alert them of cultic attacks in time to repel efforts to infiltrate His Body.

March 27
· A young mother recently stood before her China colleagues and related the long journey that her family had endured due to the special physical needs of one of their children. Yet God, in His providence, had sent several volunteer workers to help them turn a corner that effected remarkable changes. Another mother shared how God had miraculously healed her of a potentially life-threatening condition. Their testimonies were powerful reminders of the power and protection of a God who knows our every need and responds with love and grace.

· One China worker who is seeing exponential church growth in his city explained his strategy. "Every day we go out and find a person of peace. We win them to the Lord during a mealtime. Then we immediately begin training them." Praise God for those who are focused solely on seeing God's Kingdom come in China as every man, woman, and child is confronted with the Truth.

· Thank God for workers who count it joy to live in subfreezing winter temperatures, forgo conveniences like daily showers and kitchen stoves, and breath air that is thick with coal dust for the sake of Christ. Pray today for those who are selflessly home schooling their children, climbing multiple flights of stairs with babies in arms and toddlers under foot, and sending their teenagers off to boarding school in order to see the peoples of China reached. Praise the One who gave His all so that others might live.

· Pray for Christian business people in China, asking that God will protect them from harm and strengthen their testimonies as they go daily into the competitive market place. Pray that they will retain their integrity and resist temptation to fall into entrapments of the evil one. Pray that God will grant them favor in ways that will bring great glory to Him.

· The Risen Christ will be boldly and joyously proclaimed in homes, businesses, church buildings, parks and factories this Easter. Pray for all who are preparing for this strategic time of outreach. Pray that millions of Chinese people will hear the Good News and receive Christ into their hearts this Easter.

March 12
· A severe drought has caused the water level in China's longest river, the Yangtze, to plunge in recent weeks. One million people have already been impacted by a shortage of water. Pray that God will bring rain to the parched land and dwindling water supply. Pray that those who look to the heavens for rain will seek and know the Giver of every good and perfect gift and will receive Him into their hearts.

· Praise God for the goodness and generosity of volunteer workers who visit China throughout the year to join in ongoing ministries. Pray that they can capitalize on their freshness and enthusiasm to engage many Chinese men and women in conversations that will culminate in the sharing of the Good News.

· Chinese believers are being baptized daily in locations throughout China. Whether in the bathtub of a private home, the swimming pool of a hotel, the lake on a public property, or the baptistry of a registered church, many are entering the waters of immersion to symbolize their new life in Christ and death to their old self. Praise God for that thousands of Chinese people are entering the Kingdom daily.

· Committed Christian workers have prayed fervently and labored methodically for long years to catalyze church planting movements (cpm's) among people groups in China. Now they are rejoicing as they see these cpm's become a reality in various cities and among various peoples in China. As they rejoice, they are reminded that even though some have sowed and some have watered, it is He who has brought the increase. All praise to Him!

February 7
· Pray for Chinese believers as they gather with their families to celebrate the Lunar New Year that will fall on February 18 this year. Chinese tradition calls for everyone who possibly can to enjoy a New Year's eve feast with their family. Many millions of Chinese people will make long journeys to return to their home city or village at that time. Pray that all who call Him Lord will lovingly share Christ with their families over the holiday and that many Chinese people will accept Christ.

· Pray for East Asia workers who will meet for a time of worship, sharing, reporting, and training in mid-February. Ask God to guide and empower all who are planning for the gathering, all who will lead the gathering, and all who will attend the gathering. Pray for safety as many travel to the site. Pray that He will be glorified throughout all aspects of the meeting.

· Though some may find it amusing, the debate by officials of Beijing's historic Forbidden City about whether or not to close the Starbucks shop located inside its walls serves as a reminder that China is constantly having to find balance between its ancient history and its modern realities. As Chinese people young and old continue to struggle with their cultural identity, pray that through salvation in Christ, they will find their highest identity as sons and daughters of God.

· Harrassment of Chinese Christian leaders seems to have increased in China in recent weeks. Pray that all who are brought before authorities because of their stand for Christ will know what to say. (Matthew 10:19) Ask the Lord to give them courage in the face of danger and a strong radiant testimony that will impact all who are present.

· China's one-child policy is being blamed for an increasingly long list of social ills. A recent article from China's official Xinhua news agency attributes China's rising divorce rate to the policy that resulted in most of today's 20 to 30 year-olds having grown up without siblings and thus very little experience with conflict resolution. Another recent study purports that Chinese teenagers are increasingly addicted to the internet because the policy has created a generation of lonely children. Pray that all who address the great sociological needs of China's youth will seek not just to place blame, but will look for solutions. Pray that they will find the ultimate answer in Christ Jesus.

· Bitterly cold weather continues its grip on China and many are suffering. Pray that God will supply the needs of all who lack adequate heating or clothing in ways that will allow them to know the Source of their provision. Pray that as physical suffering is alleviated, they can turn their focus to the warmth of His love.

January 25
· Despite the increase of wealth in China, there is still staggering poverty. Nearly 135 million people, about 10 percent of China's 1.3 billion residents, survive on the equivalent of less than one U.S. dollar per day. Pray that God will meet the basic needs of so many who live with so little. Pray that even in their poverty, they can learn of the riches of His grace.

· With only 18 months left until the August 8, 2008 start of the Summer Olympics in Beijing, organizers are moving furiously to prepare the city, satellite host cities, and the entire country for the onslaught of visitors from every corner of the earth. Pray that many of the visitors will arrive intent on sharing the love of Christ with those who have not heard. Pray for Christian workers who are organizing strategic Olympic-related outreaches. Pray that as China opens it doors to the world, many in China will open their hearts to Christ.

· Please pray regularly and fervently for Chinese believers who suffer for the cause of Christ. Although many of China's estimated 60 million believers are able to worship and serve Christ freely, there is always the possibility of reprisal for those who are "too overt" in their witness. Yet many of them persist in sharing Christ boldly, not fearing the one who can kill the body but not the soul. Pray that each Chinese believer who is incarcerated or suffering ill treatment today because of their faithfulness to Him will feel God's loving arms embracing them and upholding them.

· Pray that God will move in the hearts of all who are needed to share Christ in China this year through a wide variety of volunteer opportunities. Thank God for the university students who served throughout the Christmas break and for all who are serving in East Asia during the Chinese New Year break. Pray that these partners in the gospel will drink deeply of the joy of joining with Him to reach the Chinese people.

January 15
· Christ's love was proclaimed throughout China in many ways throughout the Christmas season. Praise God that His Word went forth in schools, orphanages, homes, factories, churches, and parks. Thank Him for the many opportunities that were present and pray that all who received Christ into their hearts at Christmas will grow stronger in Him daily.

· Pray for the safety of Christian workers living and traveling in China. There were a reported 89,000 traffic fatalities last year, with the World Health Organization estimating that the actual number could be twice that high. Praise God that even in the face of discouraging statistics, His children need not live in fear, but can look to Him for protection.

· A major earthquake off the southern coast of Taiwan in late December resulted in severe damage to undersea fiber-optic cables that keep locations in East Asia wired to each other and to the world. Internet traffic was slowed to a crawl and telephone service to and from East Asia suffered considerable disruption. Many considered this drastic interruption of communications to be a reminder of man's overdependence on telecommunications. Pray that all who don't yet know Him will reflect on the power of God to suddenly alter even the most brilliant creations of man. Pray that all who do know Him will reflect on the need to find an appropriate balance between electronic distance communications and meaningful interaction with those close by.

· Within 20 years, China's senior population will stand at about 290 million people, almost equal to the present population of the entire United States! With 146 million elderly residents at present, the group of aging Chinese is growing by 6 million every year. But there is great concern throughout China that inadequate provision has been made for their aging citizens. As China's government addresses this pending crisis, pray that China's Christians will be sensitive to the great spiritual needs of those who are nearing the end of their time on earth. Pray that aging Chinese people will come to know of the Father's love for them and will receive His Son into their hearts.

January 3
· "As Southern Baptists reach deep into their pockets to give to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering this Christmas season, workers in Lottie's beloved China give thanks to God for the ongoing support that frees them to devote themselves entirely to the task of making Him known.

· "We have been blessed lately by remembering that we, as a couple with the Father, are a cord of three strands that will not be easily broken." So wrote a young married couple serving God in China. Please pray today that Father God will strengthen the marriages of every couple living and working in China for the sake of the gospel.

· Simple illnesses like viruses and flu aren't fun for anyone, but when experienced by a western family trying to adjust to living in China, they can cause great aggravation and stress. Please pray that all who serve in China will have strong, healthy bodies. Pray that when illnesses befall them, they will take the needed time to rest and recover fully.

· China workers will gather in early 2007 for an intensive time of sharing, training, worship and renewal. Please pray for those who are making logistic preparations for the large event, asking God to give them wisdom and strength for each task. Lift up those who will be leading various aspects of the gathering, asking God to inspire and empower them. Pray that all who participate will be challenged and blessed.

· Pray that Christian workers serving in China will be wise as serpents and gentle as doves as they deal with authorities who are unfriendly to the cause of Christ. Pray that during times of surveillance, their actions will point observers to God's glory. Pray that during times of questioning, their positive witness will spread the fragrance of Christ.